First British astronaut Helen Sharman to give a talk this Sunday, 65 years to the day since Yuri Gagarin’s historic flight to space
SUNDAY 12th APRIL 7pm USHER HALL
In this special event Helen Sharman, the first British astronaut, shares her unique, personal experiences from her historic 1991 mission aboard the Mir space station. Audiences will hear about some of her training, blasting off on a Soyuz rocket, what it’s like to live and work in space including conducting science experiments.
In conversation with Earth scientist and former BBC presenter Dr Hermione Cockburn, Helen reflects on the evolution of space exploration – from Tim Peake’s International Space Station mission to private space companies – and the growing international diversity in space programmes.
Helen Sharman said:“Space is getting really exciting again! I’m delighted to return to Edinburgh to share some insights, including my own experiences of what it’s like in space.”
On 7 and 11 March in Glasgow and Edinburgh, Scottish Opera is presenting two opera in concert performances of Richard Wagner’s timeless tale of forbidden love, Tristan und Isolde.
With the Glasgow show almost sold out, and Edinburgh tickets going fast, this is a special chance to see Wagner’s epic story of longing and death, which he himself described as his ‘most audacious and original work’.
Conducted by Scottish Opera Music Director, Stuart Stratford, and directed by Justin Way, noted Wagnerian Gwyn Hughes Jones (Tosca 2019) brings his signature Tristan to Scotland for the first time. Acclaimed Dutch soprano Annemarie Kremer makes her Company debut as Princess Isolde.
In their Company debuts, the supporting cast includes mezzo-soprano Khatuna Mikaberidze as Isolde’s maid Brangäne, and Hansung Yoo as Kurwenal. Dingle Yandell (Daphne 2023) is King Marke and Mark Le Brocq (The Makropulos Affair, 2025) is Melot. They are joined by former Emerging Artist Shengzhi Ren (Oedipus Rex 2024)and current Emerging Artist, Edward Jowle (La bohème 2025).
Justin Way, who directed all seven of Wagner’s operas in concerts at the BBC Proms in 2013, brings his expertise in concert staging to probe every dramatic nuance of these complicated characters. He has previously directed productions for companies including Opéra National de Bordeaux, and Opera di Roma.
Costume designs are by Lorna Price, Scottish Opera’s Head of Costume, and lighting designs are by Lizzie Powell, who has worked on previous productions for the Company including Falstaff in 2021 and AMidsummer Night’s Dream in 2022.
A medieval tale based on a Celtic legend and inspired by the German poem by Gottfried von Strassburg, it follows Cornish knight Tristan, who is sent to Ireland to fetch Princess Isolde for marriage to his uncle, King Marke. However, when Tristan and Isolde accidentally drink a love portion on the journey home and fall in love, it sets off a tragic chain of events.
First performed in 1865, the opera features the famous ‘Tristan chord’, which is initially heard in the prelude and left unresolved until the very end. It has notably been included in various films including Vertigo in 1958, Tender is the Night in 1962 and more recently in the 2011 Lars von Triers film, Melancholia.
Due to the extended runtime, this performance will begin earlier than usual, starting at 3pm in Glasgow, and 5.30pm in Edinburgh.
Stuart Stratfordsaid: ‘If Tristan und Isolde is not the Mount Everest of opera, it is certainly one of the highest and trickier ascents of the Himalayas requiring unparalleled feats of bravery and stamina from all – including the listener!
“At over four hours of music, it has its own way of slowly unfolding, which is at first fascinating, then revealing and finally devastating. Oh, and did I say that it preludes the most decadent period in classical music and indeed seeds the very destruction of tonality. I don’t think you should miss it!’
Director Justin Way said:‘My job as director is to facilitate the connection that the artists have with their characters and the score and free them up to explore, so that we create a vivid world where the audience writes their own mis-en-scene. We can then allow the metaphor and poetry of Wagner’s dramaturgy to fill the space. Tristan und Isolde could be summarised in a very brief paragraph, but the philosophy is enormous.
‘It’s not about action – each act starts and ends with action, but the rest is self-discovery and struggles with needs and desires. The orchestra tells you what to do. Crisis, serenity, nostalgia, and regret are all written there. Every single psychological colour is in the score.’
Scottish Opera ensures world-class opera remains accessible to everyone across Scotland. At these performances of Tristan und Isolde, tickets at Usher Hall Edinburgh are priced from £20, and from £23 at Theatre Royal Glasgow, with almost 40% of tickets £45 or under at both venues. £15 tickets are available for under-26s and students, as well as concessions for Registered Unemployed, Students, Registered Disabled, over 60s and groups.
The Company has provided over 1500 free tickets to schools since 2022, often introducing pupils to live opera for the first time, and over 1,600 free tickets have been distributed to New Scots communities across Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness and Edinburgh. Free tickets are also available for schools, colleges, and community groups, with travel subsidies where needed.
Tristan und Isolde is supported by The Scottish Opera Endowment Trust.
Edinburgh Science Festival is the first and still one of Europe’s biggest science festivals, taking place annually over the Easter holidays with 2026 dates confirmed as 4-19 April and the theme of Going Global.
The team is delighted to offer the Festival audiences a sneak peek of next year’s programme with two fantastic events, both taking place on Sunday, 12 April at Usher Hall.
At 2pm, Hamza Yassin’s Adventures in Nature brings wildlife cameraman, presenter and author Hamza Yassin in conversation with science presenter Siân Bevan, sharing stories of unique experiences and adventures as a wildlife cameraman.
Having been born in Sudan, Hamza moved to the UK as a young child and now lives on the incredible west coast of Scotland where he is often found high up in the mountains filming his beloved eagles.
Hamza will be available for book signing after the event.
At 7pm, An Evening with Astronaut Helen Sharman will see the first British astronaut sharing her extraordinary experiences from her historic 1991 mission aboard the Mir space station.
Audiences will hear about her training, blasting off on a Soyuz rocket and what it’s like to live and work in space including conducting science experiments.
In conversation with Earth scientist and former BBC presenter Dr Hermione Cockburn, Helen will reflect on the evolution of space exploration – from Tim Peake’s International Space Station mission to private space companies – and the growing international diversity in space programmes.
Edinburgh Science Director and CEO, Hassun El-Zafar said: “As we prepare for the launch of our full 2026 festival programme in February, we are delighted to reveal that Helen Sharman and Hamza Yassin will be joining us in April.
“Our 2026 Festival theme ‘Going Global’ will showcase the research and innovation created through international partnerships which address shared challenges.
“We are excited to have Helen and Hamza, who have both worked at the forefront of their respective industries, back with us at the Festival to share their stories and experience.”
Helen Sharman, the first British astronaut, said: “Space is getting really exciting again! “I’m delighted to return to Edinburgh to share some insights, including my own experiences of what it’s like in space.”
Tickets for both events will go on sale at 10am tomorrow – Wednesday, 10 December and will be available at:
Today (7th July ’25), the designer, entrepreneur and TV judge, Patrick Grant, was officially installed as the Chancellor of Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh at the University’s graduation ceremony.
Patrick, who became a household name following his appearances as a judge of BBC One’s ‘The Great British Sewing Bee’, was joined by Carol Rogers, Scotland’s leading forensic scientist. Carol, who is best known for her work on serial killer Peter Tobin’s case, was awarded an honorary degree for advancing the field of forensic science, particularly in relation to investigations of sexual offences across Scotland.
Both Patrick and Carol joined 2000 students, families and guests at an impressive ceremony in Edinburgh’s Usher Hall.
Patrick Grant
A prominent figure in the British fashion industry and founder of the social enterprise Community Clothing, Patrick Grant is an advocate for sustainability and building strong communities through entrepreneurship.
Brought up in Edinburgh, he has developed an international reputation as a champion of UK textile manufacturing, supporting local communities while producing high-quality, long-lasting garments. His book ’Less’, published in 2024 and a Sunday Times Bestseller, details his commitment to reducing consumption and embracing circular, regenerative fashion.
Over the past two decades, Patrick has built a distinguished career in the fashion industry – working with global brands including Cartier, Rolls-Royce, BMW, Barbour, and Alexander McQueen, and always advocating for craftsmanship and quality.
He revitalised Savile Row tailor Norton & Sons, relaunched men’s tailoring brand E. Tautz – winning Menswear Designer of the Year at the British Fashion Awards – and led Debenhams’ most successful designer collaboration with Hammond & Co.
In 2015, his passion for British manufacturing resulted in the rescue of Blackburn-based clothing factory Cookson & Clegg.
This experience inspired him to launch Community Clothing in 2016, a pioneering initiative that earned him widespread recognition for revitalising the UK garment industry. Community Clothing’s makes and sells UK clothing at a fraction of the price of premium brands, and has a strong focus on sustainability, job creation and building local economic prosperity.
Patrick has also become a familiar face on television. In addition to the ‘The Great British Sewing Bee’ (nominated for a BAFTA in 2022), he presented the award-winning documentary ‘Coronation Tailors: Fit for a King’, appeared on BBC Radio 4’s ’Desert Island Discs’, and won BBC One’s ’Celebrity Mastermind’.
He has written for a variety of publications, including The Financial Times, The Times, The Sun, The Daily Mail and GQ.
Sir Paul Grice, Principal of Queen Margaret University, said: “Patrick has had a meaningful and hugely impactful career as a designer, entrepreneur, writer and sustainability champion.
“His work resonates with the University’s strong social justice ethos, and our commitment to building strong communities and acting as a force for good. His passion for combining entrepreneurialism, skill and people-focused thinking to create thriving communities aligns with QMU’s purpose of shaping a better society through teaching and research.”
Carol Rogers – Forensic operation lead – Major Crime (Sexual Offences)
As National Lead Forensic Scientist for Sexual Offences with the Scottish Police Authority’s Forensic Services, Carol Rogers has advanced forensic science, bringing justice to countless victims of sexual offences.
As one of the most respected experts in her field, Carol has dedicated over two decades of her life to the meticulous and often harrowing work of forensics. Working in major crime, she has led forensic investigations in numerous major cases, including murders and serious sexual offences.
Recently, her work was highlighted on the BBC Scotland crime documentary ‘The Hunt for Peter Tobin’ where she discussed the painstaking investigation of the serial killer’s crime scene – work which led to his successful conviction.
Carol’s expertise in blood pattern analysis, body fluid analysis, damage interpretation, and DNA interpretation has been instrumental in solving some of Scotland’s most notorious crimes.
Her ability to provide expert testimony in court has been crucial in securing convictions and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable, bringing closure to victims and their families.
Sir Paul Grice, Principal of Queen Margaret University, said: “We cannot underestimate the impact that Carol Rogers’ progressive work has had on the profession of forensic science, and on the thousands of individuals and families’ lives affected by crime.
Her leadership of teams has helped set standards in forensic services, and her work has been pivotal in advancing forensic techniques and methodologies, ensuring the profession evolves and improves.
She has also drawn on her expertise as a forensic scientist and expert witness, working on cases from “crime scene to court”, to assist Queen Margaret University in the development of its PgCert Advanced Forensic Practice.
“Launched in 2021, this specialist course enables already experienced forensic practitioners to work at an advanced level in Police Custody and Sexual Assault Referral Coordination Services (SARCS).”
Sir Paul concluded:“In the year that we celebrate Queen Margaret University’s 150th anniversary, we are honoured to have two such inspirational individuals at the first of our three 2025 graduation ceremonies.
“We are delighted to officially install Patrick Grant as our new Chancellor, and to recognise Carol Rogers dedication and unwavering commitment to justice with the honorary degree of Doctor of the University.”
On Friday 20 June, over 1,100 children from 22 City of Edinburgh primary schools joined together for the Edinburgh 900 Big Sing event at the Usher Hall.
Taking to the stage was an orchestra of 70 primary school aged musicians, eight singers from Edinburgh Schools Rock Ensemble and a choir of pupils from Castlebrae Community High School and Tynecastle High Schools.
The event showcased collaborative performances from the City of Edinburgh Instrumental Music Service, Youth Music Initiative Music Instructors, Royal Conservatoire of Scotland students and Love Music.
During the event, pupils were invited to join in and sing six songs, taught and led by presenter and choir leader, Stephen Deazley. The event also featured the world premiere of a song written especially for the event by the award-winning Scottish indie-pop band, Sacred Paws, called ‘Better Side Of Town’.
Musicians Ray Aggs and Eilidh Rodgers worked with pupils from Castlebrae Community High School and Tynecastle High Schools to write lyrics and musical material for the song alongside Love Music’s Artistic Director, Stephen Deazley.
This event formed part of the celebration of Edinburgh 900, marking 900 years of formal ‘local democracy’ when, in 1124 King David I created the royal burgh of Edinburgh, one of the oldest in Scotland.
This year, a series of events, talks, tours and tales will help to tell the fascinating and diverse stories of Edinburgh’s journey and unique story.
PICTURE: Adam Cooke
Councillor James Dalgleish, Convener Education, Children and Families Committee commented: “It was a real pleasure to hear the musical talents of Edinburgh primary school children on display in the setting of the Usher Hall.
“Music has a unique ability to unite and inspire, and it was fantastic to see the way that pupils from across our schools joined together to in a fun and inclusive way.
“I want to thank our Instrumental Music Service teachers and school staff who made this event possible, and congratulate our young musicians on a brilliantperformance.
Stephen Deazley, Love Music Artistic Director said:“Creating space and opportunity for joyful communal singing is so important for our young people and school communities.
“Nothing lifts your spirit like it, which is why we were delighted to be invited to work alongside amazing musicians from Edinburgh’s instrumental Music Service to bring this ambitious project to the Usher Hall.”
A spectacular poppy drop brought a poignant close to the nations official 80th anniversary commemoration concert for VE Day at the Usher Hall in Edinburgh last night.
Second World War veterans and their families were in attendance as special guests of honour, joining a packed crowd to remember those who fought for our freedom 80 years ago and to mark the historic event that was to become known as VE Day on May 8, 1945.
Also in attendance was First Minister John Swinney, along with currently serving members of the Armed Forces and members of the public, who heard first-hand testimonies from surviving Scottish VE Day veterans on the big screen.
Musical highlights included touching performances from Fife singer songwriter Cammy Barnes, who joined the Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines Scotland, the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, the Military Wives Choir, singer Niamh Corky, and BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra violinist Iona McDonald.
Scottish actor Nicholas Ralph, of All Creatures Great and Small fame, also took to the stage to perform with young actress Sadie Addington. The evening was narrated by former MEP, journalist, and voice of the world-renowned Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Alasdair Hutton OBE TD, with broadcaster Mark Mckenzie, of BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service), acting as compere.
Dr Claire Armstrong, OBE, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland said: “We were thrilled to welcome our VE Day veterans to the Usher Hall as we came together in a national act of remembrance to honour those who lived through – and the all too many who sadly lost their lives during the period that was World War Two.
“Our national commemoration concert was a huge success, and you could feel the emotion in the room as our veterans’ stories were told on the big screen. The performances were memorable, touching and apt, and it was the ideal way to celebrate 80 years since VE Day.
“We would like to thank everyone who attended tonight, in particular those from the Armed Forces, both past and present – we thank you for your service.
“A huge thank you also to everyone behind the scenes for all their efforts in putting together this wonderful show, and also to our fabulous performers on the night.
Photo caption:- Band Scot’s girls Holly Eggleton, Maddy Lyons and Erin Gunn
“As VE Day approaches this Thursday, May 8, we encourage you to stop and take time out of your day to remember just as we have done tonight.”
Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland proudly present a special VE80 commemorative concert at Usher Hall, Edinburgh, on 6th May.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of music and storytelling as we mark 80 years since Victory in Europe.
Performing in the concert we have The Bands of HM Royal Marines Scotland, The Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, RBLS Dunfermline Pipe Band, Military Wives Choirs from all over Scotland, Cammy Barnes, Amy Hawthorn, Iona McDonald from the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Ralph from All Creatures Great and Small with Sadie Addington and Anaïs Doppel.
The event will be narrated by Alasdair Hutton OBE TD, previously the voice of the world renowned Edinburgh Military Tattoo, with broadcaster Mark Mckenzie from BFBS Scotland acting as the evenings compere.
This national tribute, endorsed by the Scottish Government, is not to be missed.
Actor Nicholas Ralph will take to the stage as part of the extraordinary Scotland’s Salute VE80 concert this May.
The Scottish performer, of Channel 5 and PBS Masterpiece television series All Creatures Great and Small, is set to tread the boards of the Usher Hall in Edinburgh as Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland celebrate 80 years since the end of World War Two on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 – two days prior to VE Day.
He’ll be joined by Scots singer/songwriter Cammy Barnes, as well as both the Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines Scotland and the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland who will perform a varied programme of stirring music befitting the strength and resilience of the wartime generation.
Nicholas said: “I am thrilled to have been asked to participate in Scotland’s Salute VE80 concert. It will be an absolute honour to take to the stage with a short performance in front of many of our nation’s current and former members of the Armed Forces.
“I look forward to seeing everyone and celebrating the upcoming 80th anniversary of VE Day.”
The concert will also feature first-hand testimony from surviving Scottish VE-Day veterans, some of whom will be present on the evening, to reflect on the past and celebrate the enduring spirit of service.
It is being narrated by former MEP, journalist, and voice of the world-renowned Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Alasdair Hutton OBE TD, with broadcaster Mark Mckenzie, of BFBS (British Forces Broadcasting Service), acting as the evenings compere.
Captain Ann Millar RM, Band Director, said: “The Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines Scotland are delighted to be involved in the VE80 concert.
“We as a band take huge pride in delivering music to the highest standard and are very much looking forward to working with all the other acts to bring Scotland an evening of musical excellence as well as a fitting tribute to commemorate the men and women, both serving and civilian whose courage 80 years ago led to Victory in Europe.
“We are planning an evening with a full, varied and entertaining programme, featuring moments of poignancy, celebration and tradition in equal parts; it will be an honour to be part of something so profound and special in such an iconic setting in the heart of Edinburgh.”
A spokesperson for the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland said: “For the Band, it is a privilege to be supporting Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland, who we have a long history of supporting and whom carry out outstanding work for both serving and ex-members of HM Armed Forces.
“It is not often where both premier military music ensembles can join forces and this occasion is definitely not to be missed.”
All profits made from ticket sales will be split 50/50 between Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland. Profits will go directly to supporting the Armed Forces community in Scotland, through Legion Scotland’s comradeship events and Poppyscotland’s welfare provisions.”
Tickets for this one-off concert spectacular, which are priced at £20.25 for the Stalls, £25 for the Grand Circle and £19.45 for the Upper Circle, are available now and can be booked through the Usher Hall booking office online or by calling 0131 228 1155.
Tonight Usher Hall is hosting UKRAINE FOREVER! A fundraising performance featuring various Ukrainian and Edinburgh-based artists. Tickets cost £12 and all proceeds go to supporting humanitarian relief in Ukraine
Soar ‘Out of this World’ with CCC’s 20-piece Essential Orchestra this March!
We’re blasting to Edinburgh’s Usher Hall on March 15 for an intergalactic musical odyssey.
Including an exciting programme of music ranging from Holst and Debussy to John Williams (no space-themed concert would be complete without certain alien-inspired music!) and a new piece from the exciting young composer, Aileen Sweeney, it really is the perfect introduction to orchestral music.
Soar ‘Out of this World’ with CCC’s 20-piece Essential Orchestra this March! 